The battle for public opinion

Sir - I write as a member of the Countryside Alliance and a keen supporter of field sports. I shoot, fish and used to hunt, but did not attend the demonstration in London on Monday (report, Dec 17).

I have no doubt that the disorder seen there will do nothing to advance the alliance case, and may actively damage it. The three previous large demonstrations organised in London, and attracting hundreds of thousands each time, impressed by the determination, restraint, dignity and sense of purpose of those who took part.

Society re-assessed its views on the hunting debate, and changed its position. Where once a small majority had favoured a ban, now the position has been reversed in favour of the alliance (although many in the Commons have yet to catch up).

To be allowed to demonstrate in close proximity to Parliament when it is sitting is a privilege, not a right, and the alliance was fortunate that the Metropolitan Police allowed it so much latitude.

Last week's demonstration was marred by the unruly behaviour of a small number who, I understand, were acting against the instructions of the alliance. Their behaviour was unhelpful.

What knowledge I have of crowd behaviour, the policing of demonstrations and the fickleness of public opinion leads me to conclude that any repeat of the unruly action will hand a PR victory to the anti-hunting lobby and, worse, cause a marginally supportive public to revert to its old position.